UK DRIVERS will be able to buy right-hand drive versions of the Renault Twingo for the first time from September.

Renault's small car has been a big player in Europe since 1993, the company has sold 2.4 million, but it has never officially been on sale in the UK.

The new Twingo will be available in two trim levels: Dynamique featuring a 1.2-litre, 16-valve, 75 horsepower petrol engine and the GT which will have Renault's new TCE (Turbo Control Efficiency) 1.2-litre, 100 horsepower petrol engine as used in the Clio and Modus.

Both will be available with five-speed manuals and the Dynamique will also have the option of the Quickshift5 robotized gearbox with an electro-hydraulic shift system that can be used in either automatic or manual flick-shift mode. Renault claims this transmission can reduce fuel consumption by three per cent.

Redesigned with a sportier, more modern look the new Twingo boasts a solid stance and a longer wheelbase that should improve handling.

The Dynamique is set to have a bespoke grille, sports bumpers and fog-lamps while the GT version will be even more dynamic with body colour side mouldings, 15-inch alloys and rear lip spoiler.

Renault will announce prices closer to launch.